Shelby Stone, a rising star in the Red Dirt music scene, is set to perform alongside legendary bands Cross Canadian Ragweed and Turnpike Troubadours on February 28, 2024, at the Akins Ford Arena in Athens, Georgia. This concert marks a significant milestone as it is the first venue outside a stadium for the “Boys From Oklahoma” tour, and Stone is the first female artist to join this notable lineup.
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Stone expressed her excitement and disbelief at this opportunity. “I’ve never even been to Georgia,” she said. “I’ve never played an arena, just the occasional national anthem gig. And now I get to open for two of the biggest and historical bands in the Red Dirt scene? I’m beyond honored, and honestly just grateful as hell.”
This performance is a continuation of Stone’s impressive journey from local performer to a prominent figure in the music industry. The 25-year-old artist from Decatur, Texas, has been steadily gaining recognition since the release of her debut full-length album, Silveryear, in August 2023. The album, which sold out its vinyl pressings immediately, was made available exclusively via Stone’s website, with plans to release it on streaming services in April 2026.
Stone’s decision to delay streaming access was deliberate. “Since we crowdfunded the album, I wanted to get it to our backers immediately,” she explained. “For everyone else, I wanted to give people the opportunity to purchase the album directly before it hits streaming, where artists make pennies on the dollar.” This approach not only honors her supporters but also aligns with her artistic vision.
Her journey into music began unexpectedly. Raised in a private school environment surrounded by religion, Stone initially aspired to become an emergency room doctor. However, after taking a job at a country radio station in Dallas, she discovered her passion for music. “They made me get on stage at a Christmas party, and I immediately changed my major from nursing to music,” she recalled. Her first performance took place on Valentine’s Day 2020, just before the pandemic, which temporarily slowed her ascent.
Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Stone found opportunities to perform in bars and clubs, gradually building her fan base. She immersed herself in the Texas music scene, studying the paths of successful female artists like Miranda Lambert and Kacey Musgraves. Stone also sought mentorship from industry veterans, including Dalton Domino, who became her manager and helped shape her career.
The collaboration between Stone and Domino has proven fruitful, resulting in well-received songs such as “Each Other” and “Easy Tiger,” both featured on Silveryear. Stone emphasizes the importance of connecting with her audience. “Treat me like a real person, and also reward me when I do what you want,” she stated. “The way to approach it is to think like a fan.”
As Stone prepares for her performance in Athens, she reflects on the significance of the opportunity. “My jaw hit the floor and stayed there,” she said about receiving the offer to join Ragweed and Turnpike. This moment represents a full-circle achievement for Stone, who grew up idolizing these bands.
Cody Canada, frontman of Cross Canadian Ragweed, has been impressed by Stone’s talent and work ethic. “Shelby got my attention immediately with her music, attitude, and voice,” he said. “I think the sky’s the limit for this badass chick. Glad to be on her side.”
With her commanding stage presence, blue-dyed hair, and emotionally charged lyrics, Stone is poised to captivate audiences at the upcoming concert. As she continues to break barriers in the music industry, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians everywhere.
